It’s getting tighter at the top in the Big Bash League with just four points separating six teams, and the clash between the Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder at the Carrara Oval shapes as a key point of the season for both sides.

The Stars have picked up form with two successive wins after starting the season with two losses. For the Thunder, a win in the last game halted a run of two losses and they now sit with a 3-2 record from five games.

Melbourne Stars

The Stars have picked up form with wins in their last two matches, but what’s more heartening is the return to form of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis (112 runs @ 149.33 SR, two wickets). Glenn Maxwell (88 runs, SR 129.41) is yet to fire, though, which remains a bone of contention.

It is the Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane (eight wickets, ER 6.81) who continues to be their leading light. Adam Zampa (four wickets, ER 6.40) remains frugal as ever as the Stars look to their two spinners to revive their season.

Sydney Thunder

It is the performance of Jos Buttler (250 runs, SR 140.44) that gives the Thunder a massive edge. The stylish Callum Ferguson (142 runs, SR 126.78) has picked up form in the last couple of matches making him a vital part of the Thunder’s campaign.

Daniel Sams has been chipping in with his all-round skills (eight wickets, 93 runs), although the rest of the bowlers have been performing below-par. However, the spin duo of Chris Green (three wickets, ER 6.73) and Jono Cook (three wickets, ER 6.56) give them tight control, which could prove to be their cutting edge.

Match Up

The Stars will continue to rely on Stoinis for his runs, now that he has started picking up runs. Maxwell continues to be an enigma, although Lamichhane’s consistency is a cause for cheer.

For the Thunder, it is the runs of Buttler that makes a huge difference, although the failure of Shane Watson is a worry. Ferguson has started picking runs as well, while the spinners look to keep controlling the middle overs.

Key Battles

With his promotion up the order, Stoinis gets more time to construct the innings and plan his demolition act. He can be dangerous with more overs at his disposal.

It’s the same for Thunder with Buttler. The swashbuckler has proven to be a master at balancing aggression and caution. His control could be vital for Thunder’s cause.

History & Statistics

Melbourne Stars have lost 13 of their last 17 BBL matches.

Sydney Thunder have won the last five matches against the Melbourne Stars, with the overall record reading 6-3.

In the month of January, the H2H record is 3-3.

Sydney Thunder have lost 24 of the 35 BBL matches they have played in January.

Tips

Back Sydney Thunder to have the highest first 6 overs score @ $1.91 (Ladbrokes).

Back Jos Buttler to be the top Sydney Thunder batsman @ $3.30 (Sportsbet).

Back Marcus Stoinis to be the top Melbourne Stars’ batsman @ $4.00 (Unibet).